Definition

Noun: A person who is held in custody, typically by a government or state authority, primarily because of their political beliefs, activities, or affiliations, rather than for common criminal charges.

Usage

The term "political detainee" is used to describe an individual whose imprisonment is perceived to be politically motivated. It often implies a critique of the detaining authority, suggesting the detention is unjust, arbitrary, or used to suppress dissent. It is a formal term common in legal, human rights, and journalistic contexts.

Examples

• The human rights organization published a report listing hundreds of political detainees held without trial.
• She was recognized internationally as a political detainee after being arrested for organizing peaceful protests.
• The lawyer's case focused on securing the release of her client, a well-known political detainee.

Advanced Usage

• "To be classified as a political detainee": To be formally recognized under this category, often by external groups like NGOs or foreign governments.
  • Despite the state's claims, Amnesty International classified the journalist as a political detainee.
• "Rights of political detainees": Refers to the specific legal and humanitarian protections that should, in principle, apply to such individuals under international law.
  • The delegation was concerned about the violation of the rights of political detainees.

Variants and Related Words

• Political prisoner (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "political detainee," though sometimes implying a more formal conviction.
• Detainee (n): A more general term for anyone held in custody, without the specific political connotation.
• Internee (n): A person who is confined, especially during wartime or political conflict.

Synonyms

• Prisoner of conscience
• Political prisoner

Related Phrases

• "Held as a political detainee": The common construction describing the state of detention.
  • The activist has been held as a political detainee for over two years.
• "Campaign for political detainees": An organized effort to advocate for their release or improved conditions.
  • They started a global campaign for political detainees in that country.

Noun

1. some held in custody